We all have seen a commercial on TV with someone who has just washed their laundry gets caught up in a state of pure euphoria after sniffing a piece of fabric. Many people can agree that this is a good description of what we feel when we live in a clean environment, even if it is a bit exaggerated.
Believe it or not, clean clothes also have a psychological effect by making us more relaxed and uplifting our mood. Nowadays, our lives tend to be a bit chaotic because of our jobs, studies, and other factors, which often lead to a messy house. In order to keep up with at least one of our chores, we prepared a couple of essential tips to follow so that your laundry can always give you some satisfaction. Moreover, you can also look for laundries near me that can handle this task for you. Here is how you can get the cleanest laundry!
Take Care of Your Washing Machine
The first and most important thing that you should take care of if you always want clean laundry is your washing machine. A well-maintained washing machine can spare you from dirty laundry, malfunctions, and expensive repairs.
You might be surprised to learn that your washer deserves just as much attention as your clothes when it comes to getting rid of dirt and grime. Over time, mineral buildup and bacteria can accumulate in your machine, leading to funky-smelling clothes and a less effective clean.
When using your washing machine, make sure to properly measure and use the recommended amount of laundry detergent, as using too much can leave behind residue and lead to clothes not being as clean as they could be.
If you want a long-lasting washing machine, it is recommended you deep clean it at least once a month. The easiest method to regularly clean your washing machine is mixing vinegar with baking soda, setting the temperature on high, and starting the washing process. However, you should clean other parts such as the water hose, the lint filter, or dispensers frequently to avoid residue.
Dry Cleaning
Not all fabrics are built the same. That is a well-known fact, which means that almost everyone has at least one piece of clothing in their closet that needs special treatment. Fabrics like silk, wool, leather, linen, denim, or rayon require special treatment and can get damaged very easily if not washed properly.
Unlike traditional washing methods, dry cleaning uses special solvents and a machine to remove stains and dirt without using water. This means that even delicate fabrics that don’t fare well in a washing machine can be safely and effectively cleaned through dry cleaning. However, it’s important to note that not all clothes necessarily need to be dry cleaned.
Reading the care instructions on your clothing tags can help you determine the best way to wash each item. If you do opt for dry cleaning, be sure to choose a reputable service to ensure your clothes are properly cared for and come out looking their best.
For this reason, garments sensitive to washing machines should be cleaned by a professional so they last longer. According to Weston Cleaners, special or delicate garments go through several processes such as inspection, retouching, washing with high-quality detergents, and pressing.
Check the Labels Before Washing
As strange as it may sound, clothing actually comes with instructions. They might not be an entire book, but they are little guiding symbols on the tags of your clothes, and if you follow them, you will get the cleanest laundry.
Not all fabrics and clothing types should be treated in the same manner. Doing so can result in shrinkage, mildewing, or discoloration! Many items need to be washed with cold water on a delicate cycle, usually with a light detergent. Similarly, drying methods are equally varied; some fabrics may call for air-drying or machine-drying on low heat. It’s very important to follow the care instructions—which is why checking the labels before washing will help you get the cleanest laundry possible.
The icons on clothing tags are meant to instruct people on how to wash it, the chemicals that should or should not be used, if it should be ironed or not, and the washing temperature. If you follow these instructions, your clothes will always be in great condition, and the fabric will keep its shine longer.
Hand Wash Delicate Fabrics
There is a category of clothing that is too delicate for the washing machine, but at the same time not so difficult that it cannot be dealt with at home. They are usually natural fibers, like cashmere and wool.
When it comes to getting the cleanest laundry, sometimes hand washing delicate fabrics is the best option. Delicate fabrics such as silk or lace require gentle handling to avoid damage or shrinkage. To hand wash these items, start by filling a basin with cool to lukewarm water and add a mild detergent.
Always make sure to read the label to ensure the detergent is appropriate for the fabric. Gently agitate the garment in the water, making sure not to rub or twist it too aggressively. Drain the water and rinse the garment thoroughly with cool water. Avoid wringing out the fabric as this can cause damage. Instead, gently press out excess water and lay the garment flat on a towel to dry.
It is enough for these materials to be carefully washed in a mixture of lukewarm water and detergent without any rough rubbing. Rinse them until the water is clear, squeeze out the excess water, and then place them flat on a surface and dry them by pressing a towel over them.